innovative polymer based materials within the … · innovative polymer based materials within the...

Innovative polymer based materials within the facade envelope assembly of buildings

Mirjana Miletic1 1Architectural Faculty, Belgrade University, Graduated Engineer of Architecture, Doctoral Studies, King Aleksandar st.

73, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

The subject of this paper is to discuss the application of materials containing some of the polymers within the facade envelope assembly of buildings. Based on systematization and interpretation of specific groups of materials, the aim of this study is to provide an overview of polymeric materials encountered in facade structures: walls, facade woodwork, coatings or sheets, and insulation. Through the individual description of each group of materials, the author discusses their properties, scope and methods of application.

Structurally, the work is divided into several parts. The introduction provides the basic definitions and properties of polymeric materials. In the second part, polymeric materials which are applied to the building facades are classified into several groups: biomaterials, biodegradable materials, recycled materials, lightweight structural materials, insulation and multifunctional materials. After describing the specific groups of materials (essentially reflecting thereby the situation throughout the world in this respect), an overview is provided regarding the situation in our country in terms of scope and mode of application of polymeric materials in the facade assembly structure.

Keywords: polymers; facade envelope; bio-based materials; biodegradable materials; recycling materials; lightweight structural materials; insulation materials, multifunctional materials.

1. Introduction

1.1 Basic concepts of polymer technology

Polymers are complex organic substances obtained by chemical synthesis of simple compounds known as monomers. They can be classified as natural and artificial. Proteins and cellulose belong to the group of natural materials, while synthetic materials are otherwise known as synthetic resins given that in many ways they are reminiscent of compounds called resins, such as natural rubber or amber. Polymers can be of linear or mesh structure and it is their structure that reflects their behavior when heated. Accordingly, they are divided into thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers. Thermoplastic polymers are materials which become pliable or moldable when heated and return to a solid state upon cooling, retaining their previous properties. The softening and hardening procedure can be repeated several times without the risk of modifying their mechanical properties. Thermosetting polymers are stable at moderately high temperatures; by heating they can soften only once before switching to a plastic state. At moderately high temperatures they will suffer deformation, while at high temperatures they are burning. Elastomers are synthetic polymers used in civil engineering. They are characterized by high deformability at ambient temperature and a very high yield strain at break (500-1000%).[1]

2. Polymers within the building facade envelope

Polymeric materials play an important role in the construction industry. This area is the second largest market for this group of materials, right after the packing industry. In their pure from, polymers are seldom used in civil engineering; instead, in the vast majority of cases we encounter plastic masses consisting of polymers as binding materials and various additives. The market size for this group of materials is the best indicated by the fact that until the last year as much as 9.54 million tons of plastic were consumed on annual level, accounting for 20% of their overall use.[2] The production of plastic masses is an energy consuming process and these masses are highly toxic in liquid state. Given their low degradability, they are constantly exposed to criticism of various environmental organizations, though the waste they are generating contributes only with 0.5% to the overall waste volume. [3] However, depending on the type and production of polymer-based materials containing, the environment may be compromised in several ways and in several stages. New technologies are tending to improve the material's life cycle and to create environmental-friendly and energy efficient materials, e.g. biomaterials or biodegradable materials. Polymers are presented in this paper also as recycled materials, because recycling cannot be ignored, particularly when it comes to these materials. Environmentally speaking, they are factor 5, meaning that the production of one kilogram of material from this group requires five kilograms of non-renewable resources. When it comes to energy efficiency, a new image of materials is provided by materials contained in lightweight construction and insulation elements. The use of

Materials and processes for energy: communicating current research and technological developments (A. Méndez-Vilas, Ed.)____________________________________________________________________________________________________

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lightweight structural elements and insulation materials in architecture is one of the parameters for achieving energy efficiency. In addition to these groups, polymers in certain parts of facade assembly are also found in the group of multipurpose materials. These are the representatives of revolutionary processes, replacing traditional solutions which require a lot of construction work and high energy consumption.

2.1 Bio-based materials

Crude oil-based foams, single-use dishes made from potato starch or plastic utensils reinforced with carrot fibers are intriguing examples of how biomaterials can be used. In recent years, these materials have seen tremendous growth – they are made entirely or at least 20% from renewable sources. As a result, in the years to come crude oil will lose its significance as a basis for the production of plastic masses. By 2020, the production of bioplastics is expected to be increased by 20 to 30%, which would mean that as much as 3 million tons of bioplastics will be produced annually (currently, this production is 350.000 tons). [4] The goal is to replace crude oil, which is the main raw material for the production of thermoplastic polymer materials, by biopolymers. Raw materials for the production of this group of materials are natural polymers such as starch, rubber or sugar, flax or cellulose. In addition of bioplastics, biocomposite materials represent another important group of biomaterials. These include natural fiber-reinforced plastics and polymer-based composites. Figure 1 shows bio-based foam insulation made from natural castor oil.

Fig. 1 Spray foam insulation made from natural castor oil. Source: http://www.ebuild.com/articles/1037669.hwx

2.1.1 Bioplastics

Bioplastics based on polyhydroxybutyric acid; possible field of application: thin-wall components of complex geometry The second most important bio-based raw plastics, right after the polylactic acid (PLA), is the polyhydroxybutyric acid (PHB). Its profile corresponds to the widely used polypropylene (PP). PHB is a non-transparent biopolymer. It is a thermoplastic material with a melting point of 170-180°C. In the coming years, PHB is anticipated to replace polypropylene in several sectors, especially in the packing industry. Biomer thermoplastics are PHB-based polyesters. Components made from these materials are heat-resistant, waterproof and completely biodegradable. Using conventional equipment and technology, granules can be transformed into thin wall components of complex geometry. Given the high costs of their production, these materials are prevented from being used in a large scale. Cellulose-based bioplastics; possible field of application: insulation panels Since discovered in cell walls of each plant, cellulose is the most widely present organic substance. It is a natural biopolymer, like starch, ideally suited for the production of thermoplastic bioplastics for the use in translucent components. The most important examples of this group of materials are cellulose acetate (CA) and cellulose triacetate (CTA). Light transmittance of the cellulose-based plastics can be up to 90%. In the context of application to building facades, this material is important for the production of insulating panels. Such panels are first used 60 years ago for insulating the Scandinavian railway carriages. This is a translucent, bending-resistant, durable and biodegradable material, consisting of cellulose fibers (50-70%) and polyethylene or polypropilene (25-50%). [5]


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2.1.2 Composites

Wood-polymer composites, WPC; possible field of application on facades: wall panels and boards This composite is made from wood fiber, plastic matrix (PP, PE or PLA) and various additives. The amount of wood fibers is between 50 and 90%. Positive features of this wood include low shrinkage and high stiffness, low thermal expansion and high humidity resistance. If well stiffened, it can be used for wall panels and boards. [6] Figure 2 shows the facade of the building made of wood- polymer composite.

Fig. 2 Wood- polymer composite at facade envelope of the building. Source: http://www.p-wholesale.com/subcat/21/838/other-decoration-materials-p8.html Cork-polymer composites; possible field of application on facades: wall panels, insulation This composite consists of 0.5-2 mm cork particles mixed with polyvinyl acetate (TPE) or soft PVC. The thermoplastic bonding material provides this composite with interesting properties and a specific feeling when touched. Depending on the application, it contains 20 to 80% of cork. The material is 100% water and decay resistant. Wall panels made of this composite consist of 30% cork, 30% coconut and 40% PVA. As such, this material can be very effectively shaped by pressing. The cork-polymer composite can be used also as insulation on building facades. The material obtained by mixing cork with acrylic resin, vegetable oil and water is applied to the facade; the material is then dried 8 to 48 hours and makes a good insulation material. [7] Table 1 shows the main characteristics of bio-based materials. Table 1 Main characteristics of bio-based materials

Bioplastics (BP) and composites

Composite Property profile Quality- resistance

Sustainability aspect

Product name

BP based on polyhydroxybutric acid

PHB, sugar, microorganism

Similar to PP Heat resistant Water proof UV stable

Renewable resources Biodegradable

Biomer

BP based on cellulose

Natural biopolymer

Similar to PS Optical transparency Thermal resistance

Renewable resources Recycled

Moniflex Agricell

Wood polymer composites

Wood- polymer thermoplastic High rigidity Moisture resistance Very stable

Substitute for tropical wood

Megawood

Cork polymer composites

Cork- polyvinyl, TPE or soft PVC

Cork polymerTactile quality Rot resistance Water impermeable

Renewable resources

Subertress

2.2 Biodegradable materials

A material is considered biodegradable if in the process of industrial production of some other material that requires its presence degrades at rate of 90% within 12 weeks. In addition to products based on natural raw materials, under specific conditions some crude oil-based materials also satisfy this criterion, which makes them suitable for use. Cellulose or starch-based plastics are often used in manufacturing of and can be classified as biodegradable materials because they meet the above criterion. Some crude oil-based products, such as polycaprolactone or polyvinyl alcohol are also suitable in this regard.


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2.2.1 Water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol

Possible field of application on facades: adhesives Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) is a white colored plastic material with thermoplastic features. Its adhesion ability is excellent, and posesses high tensile strength and flexibility. This plastic is resistant to oil, grease and solvents.

2.2.2 Alkali-soluble plastic

Possible field of application on facades: glues substituting polystyrene These plastics are recyclable without losing any of their original properties. This important feature can be achieved with polymers based on acrylate and polystyrene that link the carboxyl group. This material is stable in water and very similar to polystyrene.

2.2.3 Polycaprolactone

Possible field of application on facades: adhesives Although based on crude oil, this plastic is still biodegradable. In soil and in the presence of microorganisms it degrades in a matter few days. This material is similar to the mass-produced plastic polyethylene. It is mainly used in medicine and packing industry, although a product known as capromer is used for producing polyurethane and cast elastomers. [8] Table 2 shows the main characteristics of the mentioned biodegradable materials. Table 2 Main characteristics of the biodegradable materials

Material name Type of the material Quality Sustainability aspect

Product name

PVOH Thermoplastics

Highly flexible High tensile strength Solvent resistant

Made of fossil based raw material

Elvanol Sokufol

Alcali- soluble plastics

Thermoplastics

Recycling without loss of quality Reused plastics

Completely recyclable

/

Polycaprolactone Quality as thermoplastic

High elasticity Low melting point

Biodegradable Capromer

2.3 Recycling materials

Reutilization or recycling of materials has reached a high level in recent years when it became clear that other resources, as opposed to crude oil, are steadily increasing. Experts dealing with the issues of using this resource believe that the production of materials based on this non-renewable resource will be decreased by 50% in the next 20 years.

2.3.1 Recycled plastics

Possible field of application on facades: thermal insulation, wall panels The market share of plastics made from renewable resources is very small. The range of polymers mainly used in the construction industry is based on crude oil. Taking into account the full life-cycle of products (including their production, transport and disposal), plastics are highly preferred materials as compared to many traditional materials. Their low weight makes them energy efficient, i.e. resources are saved during transportation. At the end of the life cycle of plastic materials there are many options for their recycling at hand. The simplest solution is to reuse the materials that retain their original function. Recycled plastics consisting of 80% PET is used as thermal and acoustic insulation. This plastic does not contain any harmful additives and can be recycled to a full extent. In addition to plastics, sand can also be incorporated into materials with good thermal characteristics in a ratio of as much as 70%. The material obtained in this way is water, acid and impact resistant. Its fracture resistance is higher than that of concrete even though this plastic is lighter than concrete. The main products made of this kind of material known on the market as siotec are wall panels. PVC is also recyclable and this type of plastics is used for the production of composite wall panels for facades and interiors. [9] Figure 3 shows the facade fully made of recycled plastic material.


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Fig. 3 Facade made of recycling plastics. Source: http://www.architizer.com/en_us/blog/dyn/56153/building-of-the-day-a-funky-green-pavilion-by-vaillo-irigaray/

2.3.2 Recycled elastomers

Possible field of application on facades: thermal insulation Elastomer-based raw materials like tires, floor coverings or shoe soles were disposed over many years as a waste material until their recycling potential was not discovered. When granulated, they can be used as reinforcement for plastics. Here, we will mention a product where as much as 90% of the material consists of recycled rubber. The thermal capacity of this material is very good, so it can be used as insulation. [10] Isolgomma RTA is a product made from 90% recycled elastomers mixed with cork or rubber particles. This material is a good acoustic insulator, used in construction industry for covering floors and walls. Table 3 shows the main characteristics of the recycling materials that can be applied in the structure of building facades. Table 3 Main characteristics of the recycling materials

Name Composites Quality Sustainable aspect Product name

Recycling plastics

80% of PET from PVC

Water, acid and impact resistant

100% recyclable Edilfiber Siotec Keridur

Recycling elastomers

from rubber, elastomers with cork

Anti slip Waterproof Shock absorbent

Re-use of elastomer waste materials

InstaCoustic Cradle Isolgamma RTA

2.4 Lightweight construction and insulation materials

The small dimensions of these materials can contribute to reducing construction costs and the energy needed for transportation. In addition to lightweight construction materials, insulation materials are one of the key factors in constructing objects of plus and zero energy consumption. When it comes to insulating materials, innovations in this area certainly include translucent thermal insulations, aerogels – solids consisting of 95% cavities.

2.4.1 Transparent plastic panels

Transparent plastic panels that are used in interiors and building facades can be produced from a variety of plastics such as PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate), PC (Polycarbonate), GRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic), PET (Polyethilene Therephthalate) PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), HPL (High Pressure Laminates) and HDP (High Density Polyethilene). PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate); possible field of application on facades: translucent thermal insulation The PMMA or acrylic glass has the best optical performance compared to all polymeric materials. It is similar to glass; however its great advantage is in its lightweight nature (half as light as glass). Given the level of its light transmission ability (up to 92%), this material is ideal to be used in greenhouses. These panels are easy to handle and suitable for virtually all architectural purposes. They are scratch resistant and simple to maintain by polishing with special pastes. PMMA can be used as a translucent thermal insulation in the form of pure white or capillary tubes. PC (Polycarbonate); possible field of application on facades: coating, translucent insulation There are many options for installing polycarbonate panels as facade coatings. Polycarbonate (PC) panels can withstand high winds and heavy deposits of snow; thus, in addition to facades, they can be used also for roofing. They are stiff, lightweight and multipurpose with excellent properties covering a wide range of conditions and climate. Without additives, these panels are highly unstable to UV radiation. Their level of light transmission is up to 88% if their thickness does not exceed 3 mm and if they are translucent and up to 50% if the panels are white. On locations


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where high temperatures are preventing the use of PMMA panels, PC boards are used as translucent facade insulation. [11] GRP (Glass fiber reinforced plastic); possible field of application on facades: facade woodwork The term fiberglass refers to plastic materials reinforced with fiberglass wool. It is a synthetic material (laminate), produced by soaking several sheets of this material into polyester resin; after that, they are bundled together under specific pressure, while natural discoloration and the effects of UV radiation are prevented by using natural pigments. To prevent glass fibers from being exposed to the weather, their surface needs to be treated with particular coatings. GRP is available in form of corrosion resistant boards; they can be also decorative with glass inserts. PET (polyethylene therephthalate); possible field of application on facades: boards and panels Provided that manufactured by adding specific additives, PET is highly resistant to chemicals and impacts, as well as to fire. The solid PET panels can be manufactured as transparent or colored, with smooth or structural surface. PVC (polyvinyl chloride); possible field of application on facades: facade woodwork, wall panels without thermal insulation Trapezoidal or wrinkled PVC panels are used when it is not necessary to thermally insulate the room. The heat transfer coefficient of PVC material is 11 times higher than that of glass. UV stability is achieved without adding barium, cadmium or lead. The light transmission rate of a 1 mm thick PVC is up to 85%. When it is necessary to keep a given color, PVC panels are suitable for external use only to a limited extent given their high instability under UV radiation. [12] HDP (High Density Polyethilene); possible field of application on facades: finish coating These are very lightweight plastic panels consisting of high density polyethylene (HDPE). Manufactured through a unique process from residues of recycled plastic, they can be used as finish facade coating, especially in areas where the interior is highly humid, i.e. in areas containing water bodies. Panels are distinguished by durability, which makes them suitable for use in the exterior, they are waterproof, easy to clean, wear, bacteria and warp-resistant, they neither decay nor change their shape due to moisture. The figure 2 shows its application on facade. [13]

Fig. 4 HDP on facade of the building, Source: http://www.bpn.com.au/applications/vibrant-plaspanel-cladding-protects-underbelly-of Fluoropolymer sheets; possible field of application on facades: panels and coverings Plastic sheets, produced on the basis of structural fluoropolymer thermoplastics are the sole transparent plastic product able to withstand prolonged UV radiation, while remaining UV transparent on a long-term basis. These rigid sheets are based on FEP, ETFE, meaning that they are highly fireproof and durable – they are useful for up to thirty years. Fluoropolymers are materials of very high melting point and a rather good fire resistance, without using any additives that could lead to changes in properties of the sheet over time. The transparency of fluoropolymer sheets is 5% better than that of glass, allowing the existence of vegetation in rooms. [14]

2.4.2 Double-webbed panels

Possible field of application on facades: walls In recent years, architects are becoming increasingly interested for double-webbed panels with translucent plastic panels as finish layers and structural filling. These panels have recently become available from biodegradable synthetic resins in which conventional thermoplastic is replaced by polylactic acid (PLA) that provides the material with stability. They can be recycled without any CO2 emissions and toxic waste. These wall panels are used in interior, e.g. in booths as partition walls. In building facades self-reinforced thermoplastics are used. [15]


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2.5 Conventional insulation materials

The energy consumed by an average traditional building during its service life amounts approximately 200-300kWh/m2. A new house built according the standards of low energy consumption consumes less than 100 kWh/m2. This model of energy-efficient houses allows a high level of residential comfort, with less than 15 kWh/m2 energy consumed for heating purposes; when including warm water and electricity, this consumption is less than 120 kWh/m2. This is the standard to be achieved. Plastic-based products have a major role when it comes to the need for energy savings. For this purpose, plain Styrofoam is not enough. The material needed here should be of better mechanical and especially thermal insulation properties.

2.5.1 Styrofoam

Possible field of application on facades: thermal insulation Styrofoam is expanded polystyrene. The structure of Styrofoam consists of polystyrene cells mutually bonded in the process of vulcanization into a homogeneous structure of small, air-filled cells. During its fifty years of history, it has become a synonym for thermal protection. It is environmentally suitable and fully recyclable. It mounts on any surface: brick, block, concrete. It is mounted to the wall by pasting and secured by anchors.

2.5.2 Stirodur

Possible field of application on facades: thermal insulation Stirodur is made from extruded polystyrene in the form of hard foam boards. It is featured by very high density, which makes it a stable and durable material. The boards are good thermal insulators, impervious to moisture and highly resistant to pressure. These insulating boards are playing the role of vapor barriers; thus, they are mounted on concrete elements and foundation walls. They are used for insulating flat roofs and terraces, as well as the insulation towards the soil. [16]

2.6 Plastic refined with mineral particles

Possible field of application on facades: thermal insulation While some researchers are focused on the production of polymeric materials based on renewable sources of energy, others are trying to reduce the share of crude oil by introducing mineral particles into the material.

2.6.1 Silver-gray neopor

Possible field of application on facades: thermal insulation Neopor is made of expanded polystyrene with the addition of carbon fibers. The much lower thickness of Neopor has the same effect as the 40% thicker Styrofoam, creating a better thermal insulation for the building. Similar to polystyrene, neopor performs insulation based on the air contained in it, but carbon fibers are providing it with up to 20% better quality and less heat losses. Neopor is recommended to be mounted on brick walls, as well as on solid and hollow concrete and siporex blocks. Neopor panels are resistant to decay and aging, they are solid and hydrophobic, and easy to handle without irritating the skin. In addition to their energy saving features, elastic neopor insulating panels also improve the sonic insulation of walls. [17]

Fig. 5 Silver neopor on the building facade. Source: http://barbencon.lamaisonpassive.be/tag/isolation


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2.6.2 Rigid polyurethane foams

Possible field of application on facades: thermal insulation Rigid polyurethane panels allow the same level of isolation as the 40% thicker walls. This is particularly interesting for the reconstruction of existing facades, as well as for the internal insulation of small rooms. PUR is a result of chemical reaction of polyol and isocyanate. These foams are produced by adding foaming agents and catalyzing under the influence of moisture, which makes the product foaming to a volume that is 20-50 times larger than its original size. Upon the thermal solidification, thermal conductivity of the foam is as low as 0.025-0.035 W/mK. The rigid foam is resistant to chemicals and solvents; when adding fire preventing agents, it is highly fire-resistant. These PUR panels are mainly used for roofs, walls and floors, both from the inside and the outside. They are highly suitable for insulating the external walls. [18]

2.6.3 Vacuum insulation panels (VIP)

Possible field of application on facades: thermal insulation As a result of the increasing demand for thermal insulation in buildings, new insulation products were developed for substituting conventional materials. The thickness of traditional materials if to be used to meet the new standards should be as much as 30-50 cm, which makes them rather impractical. Compared to these traditional materials, the thermal conductivity of polystyrene is as much as ten times lower. VIP panels are able to achieve maximum thermal resistance with minimum insulation thickness. At only 0.005 W/mK, thermal conductivity of these panels is extremely low. [19] The historical predecessor of these panels is the thermos bottle that operates based on the same principle: instead of closing the air pockets, low thermal conductivity is achieved by their total evacuation, i.e. by creating a vacuum. As the filling, extremely fine material of 100 nm nanoscale porosity was used. The panels are consisting of a plastic sheet (which is often coated with aluminium or stainless steel). The filling material is in the form of foam, powder or glass fibers, and is always highly porous. This product is typically made of silicon dioxide. For dispensing the air from the mass, a fairly low pressure is required. The thickness of panels used in construction industry is 2-40 mm. Indeed, the most critical component of the panel is the outside protection which is responsible for maintaining the vacuum. For this purpose, polymer laminate sheets are used, that withstand the pressure that after 30-50 years of duration usually does not exceed 100 mbar. [20] The price of VIP insulation panels is much higher than that of the conventional insulation materials which prevents VIP panels from replacing these conventional materials. They are typically used in applications which require thin insulation, i.e. where the space is limited and conventional materials cannot be used. Figure 5 shows VIP panels at the facade envelope.

Fig. 6 VIP panels on the facade. Source: http://www.zae.uni-wuerzburg.de/english/division-2/north-facade.html

2.7 Multifunctional materials

Multifunctional materials are replacing traditional solutions which are possible to achieve only by investing a large amount of construction work and a large amount of energy. One of the materials of multipurpose properties is the nano titanium dioxide. If in contact with the surface of some other material, this component can change its characteristics in many ways; it can facilitate maintenance or protect against UV radiation. The goal is to develop self-healing materials, which would have been unthinkable only a few years ago.

2.7.1 Phase Changing Materials (PCMs)

Possible field of application on facades: thermal insulation Latent heat batteries can be integrated in many materials like plywood, plaster, mortar and structural panels, affecting favorably the ambient temperature.


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The cost of using this type of materials pays off in about five years. PCM's are able to store and release large amounts of energy by melting and solidifying paraffin at a given temperature. They are operating in a straightforward manner: plastic capsules of an acrylic polymer are filled with paraffin wax and salt hydrates, which release energy when melting. All this is accompanied by a pleasant feeling in objects that consume as much as 30% less energy for air-conditioning. The diameter of plastic capsules ranges between 2 and 20 nm. These capsules can be integrated into typical building materials and about three million capsules fit in one square centimeter. [21] PCM materials can be contained also in constructive plaster panels of 1.5cm thickness. The properties of these panels are similar to that of 15 cm concrete walls. It can be integrated into concrete or clay or subsequently applied through the mortar. [22] While having the potential of reducing energy consumption and despite the decades spent to their development, these materials still do not have a leading role in architectural engineering. They are more expensive than conventional products they ought to replace, which is one of the main reasons for their limited use.

2.7.2 Dirt-repellent surfaces

Possible field of application on facades:dirt repellent surfaces Nanotechnology has developed a series of coatings with varying roles on building facades – from the absorption of infrared rays through dirt-repellent surfaces. Insulation nano-coatings can be used as thin films for glasses and plastic panels. These coatings can block infrared and ultraviolet rays with the accuracy of 97-99%, allowing thereby lower temperatures within closed areas. Polymeric materials are an essential part of some of these coatings. Table 4 shows the main characteristics of multifunctional materials that can be found in the structure of building envelope. Table 4 Main characteristics of the multifunctional materials

Name Product name Composites of Quality Sustainability aspect

PCMs PCM smart board Maxit clima 26 Cel bloc Plus

Gypsum panel Gypsum plaster Concrete

Natural air conditioning

Optimized heat insulation

Dirt repellent surfaces

Nanotol ccflex

TiO2 on plastic ceramic walls

Hydrophobic Lipophobic Oleophobic

Less cleaning required

3. The situation in Serbia regarding the application of polymeric materials in the building facade envelope

We can find polymers in all the above materials that can be applied to building facades. The question regarding the situation in our country is the best answered by the fact that of all these materials only the environmentally most critical materials are extensively used, provided that we consider the object as a totality – thermal insulating materials on facades are coming from non-renewable resources; these are the Styrofoam and stirodur. In terms of energy efficiency, these materials fail to meet the required criteria, given the thickness of their application. With the adoption of the Regulation on Energy Efficiency the situation in the near future will certainly change also regarding the use of materials within the building assembly, particularly on facades which are part of the building's thermal envelope. [23] Recently, the use of composite materials in our country is increasing, while standard applications are based on plastic, wood and aluminium. The prevailing plastic material is the PVC, used for facade woodwork. This material also has its drawbacks, specifically in the context of environmental protection, because its production is based on the use of various additives and plasticizers that are not environmentally friendly. [24] Laboratory efforts aimed at researching this material are focused on improving its properties and developing bio-organic additives- but not in our country. Due to its widespread use in our market, it is worth to note Plexiglas (PMMA) as a lightweight structural element. Considering innovations we are still about to learn. Table 5 gives us a full picture about innovative polymeric materials that can be applied at facade envelope with the special column of its use in Serbia. Table 5 Innovative polymer based materials within the non-transparent part of facade envelope of the buildings; situation in Serbia

Bio-based materials Non transparent positions of the facade envelope, walls

Application in Serbia Construction Insulation

Panels and cover elements

Foils and coatings

Polyhidroxybutric a. • No Based on cellulose • • No Based on lignin • No


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WPC • No Cork- polymer • • No

Bio-degradable materials

Non transparent positions of the facade envelope Application in Serbia Construction Insulation


Foils and coatings

adhesives No

Recycling materials Non transparent positions of the facade envelope



Foils and coatings

Plastics • • No Elastomers • • No

Light weight construction materials

Non transparent positions of the facade envelope Application in Serbia Construction Insulation


Foils and coatings

PMMA • No PC • • • No GRP • • Yes PET • No PVC • Yes HPL • No HDPE • No Fluor-polymer foils • No

Insulation materials Non transparent positions of the facade envelope



Foils and coatings

Styrofoam • Yes Stirodur • Yes Rigid polyurethane • No Plastic with minerals • No VIP panels • No

Multifunctional materials

Non transparent position of the facade envelope Application in Serbia Construction Insulation


Foils and coatings

PCMs • • • No Dirt repellent surfaces

• No

Table 6 shows the list of polymeric materials that can be applied on transparent part of the facade structure, windows and doors, with review on situation in our country.

Table 6 Innovative polymer based materials within the transparent part of facade envelope of the buildings; situation in Serbia

Bio-based materials Transparent positions of the facade envelope, windows and doors Application in

Serbia Construction Glass Coatings Wood polymer • Yes

Lightweight construction materials

Transparent positions of the facade envelope, windows and doors Application in Serbia Construction Glass Coatings

PMMA • Yes GRP • • No PET • No PVC • • Yes HDPE • No

Multifunctional materials

Transparent positions of the facade envelope, windows and doors Application in Serbia Construction Glass Coatings

Dirt repellent surfaces • • • No


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4. Conclusion

One of the major issues we are facing when it comes to materials is the issue of the use of available resources of our planet and the related problem of waste, generated on a continuous basis. Polymer-based materials are constantly criticized by the public as major pollutants, although, taking into account all the facts, they are more efficient preservers of the environment than the conventional materials which were previously used for similar purposes. The answer to the question of why these materials are constantly criticized, although their waste accounts for only 0.5% of the total waste, is twofold: in nature, they are degrading at a very slow rate and their production is based on non-renewable fossil fuels. [25] New technologies are aimed at creating facilities for the production of materials causing minimum environmental pollution and requiring the lowest possible energy consumption, even for those new materials "that contain various additives that make their treatment and return to the production process impossible." [26] Large material manufacturers are increasingly turning their production processes towards the production of biopolymers. As a specific category, these materials are becoming increasingly important within the framework of polymers. However, compared to polymers based on petrochemical resources, their contribution to the overall polymer production is at the minimum level, at least for now. Today, there is an increasing use of recycled plastics, lightweight structural elements and innovative insulation materials. These are one of the parameters for achieving energy efficiency, which is inevitable in the design and construction of buildings. A specific category of materials worth mentioning here are the multipurpose materials, which, as their name suggests, simultaneously perform several functions in the construction of buildings. Particularly attractive of this group of materials are facade coatings, which in addition of their ease of maintenance, are also prolonging the service life of the building's outward envelope. Many innovative materials are at the very beginning of their use. A large number of polymeric materials are used on the facades of buildings and many of them proved highly effective, although their abilities are not fully explored because their use is at the very beginning. Materials used in construction industry are well on their way to being increasingly natural, healthier, and convenient in terms of protecting the environment, creating a life of quality and solid foundations for the life of future generations.

References [1] Polymers, Available at: http://www.grf.bg.ac.rs/mm/files/learnmat/19Polymers.pdf, Accessed December 9, 2010. [2] Bogdanovic, V. Polymers in construction industry, situation in Serbia, World of Polymers. 2005; 8: 73-78. [3] Plastics, Available at: http://www.plasticseurope.org/use-of-plastics/building-construction.aspx, Accessed August 8, 2012. [4] Peters, S. Material Revolution Sustainable and Multi purpose Materials for Design and Architecture.Basel: Birkhauser. 2011;

6-10. [5] ibid. p. 35-39. [6] Wood polymer composites, Available at: http://www.woodheadpublishing.com/EN/book.aspx?bookID=1340,

Accessed February 8, 2013. [7] Fernandes, E. Properties of new cork polymer composites. Advantages and drawbacks as compared with comercially available

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http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/masy.19981350133/abstract. Accessed August 2012. [11] Ballard Bell, V. Materials for Architectural Design, London: Laurence King Publishing, стр. 2006:236.-241. [12] Kaltenbach, F. (ed). Translucent materials. Munich: Institut fur Internationale Architectur- Documentation Gmbh, 2004:40-51. [13] Plaspanels, Available at http://www.infolink.com.au/c/Builda-Panels-Plaspanel/Lightweight-and-Waterproof-Panels-from-

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2006: 205. [16] Polymers in civil engineering, Available at: 09.08.2010 from http://static.oglasnik.hr/nekretnine/clanak/polimeri-u-

graditeljstvu,428. Accessed August 8, 2010. [17] Innovation in Insulation, Available at:

http://www.plasticsportal.net/wa/plasticsEU~en_GB/function/conversions:/publish/common/upload/foams/Neopor_Wall_insulation_HR.pdf, Accessed August 20, 2012.

[18] Ibid, Peters, S. p.110. [19] EMPA (Swiss Federal Laboratories for Material Testing and Research), ZAE- Bayern (Bavarian Centre for Applied Energy

Research) and other, (2005) Vacuum Insulation Panels, Study on VIP Components and Panels for Service Life Prediction of VIP in Building Architecture, Available at: http://www.ecbcs.org/docs/Annex_39_Report_Subtask-A.pdf. Accessed August 21, 2012.

[20] Laydecker, S. Nano materials in Architecture, Interior Architecture and Design, Berlin: Birkhauser Verlag AG. 2008: 122-123. [21] ibid, Laydecker, S. p.136


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[22] ibid, Peters, S. p.149. [23] Regulation on Energy efficiency of the Buildings „Official Gazzete of RS“, no. 61/2011 [24] Bogdanović, V.Polymers in construction industry with the review on situation in Serbia, World of Polymers. 2005. 3; 8:75. [25] Babic, D. Stosic, B. Needs of sustainable development and innovative approach, World of Polymers; 2011;14: 103-108. [26] Radivojevic. A, Materials in Architecture, Lecture 8., 2011. Belgrade, University of Belgrade, Faculty of Architecture


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